Description
Book SynopsisFor the ancient Druids, the healing and magical properties of herbs were inseparable from the larger cycles of the seasons, the movements of the planets, and the progression of a human life. A Druid’s Herbal shows the reader how to use herbs when creating rituals to celebrate festivals and significant life passages such as births, house blessings, weddings, funerals, and naming ceremonies. Drawing on extensive research and a deep personal experience with Pagan traditions, Ellen Evert Hopman explores the history and folklore surrounding the eight major Celtic festivals: Samhain, Winter Solstice, Imbolc, Spring Equinox, Beltaine, Summer Solstice, Lugnasad, and Fall Equinox. Included in each discussion are complete instructions on the medicinal and magical uses of the herbs associated with each celebration. Using these Celtic traditions as examples, the author suggests ways to incorporate the symbolic and magical power of herbs into personal rituals that honor all phases of life from childbirth to last rites. Also included are chapters on how to prepare herbal tinctures, salves, and poultices; herbs used by the Druids; herbal alchemy and the planets; and the relationships between herbs and sacred places. Filled with practical information and imaginative suggestions for using herbs for healing, ceremony, and magic, this book is an indispensable and comprehensive guide to age-old herbal practices.
Trade Review"Ms. Hopman demonstrates a wide knowledge of the Celts and their mythology as well as her understanding of modern homeopathy. Her book includes a Celtic dictionary, which makes it all the more appealing to anyone interested in ancient Celtic lore. She moves through the year describing rituals and herbal uses for Druidic holidays and celebrations. Herbs for marriage, funerals, births, and house blessings are discussed in detail. A fascinating herbal." * Country Living *
"
A Druid's Herbal will certainly promote your own wisdom and health, and it makes a valuable addition to any home library." * Anke Kriske, Sage Woman *
"An absolute must for Druids and Ban-drui (which includes the modern Avalonian path),
A Druid's Herbal also holds significant appeal for herbalists and anyone interested in plant magic. Accessible to beginners but with plenty of detail for experts, this book is ideal for all levels of experience. Highly recommended." * Hypatia's Hoard *
"This book is a good summary and introduction to medicinal and magical herbs used by the Druids. This is another excellent book to add to your herbal library." * Circle Magazine, Spring 2001 *
Table of ContentsA Druid's Herbal For the Sacred Earth Year Introduction
Chapter 1. The Druids
Chapter 2. Herbal Basics
Chapter 3. Samhain (All Hallows)
Chapter 4. Mean Geimhridh (Winter Solstice, Yule)
Chapter 5. Imbolc/Oimealg (Candlemas)
Chapter 6. Mean Earraigh (Spring Equinox)
Chapter 7. Beltaine (May Eve)
Chapter 8. Mean Samhraidh (Summer Solstice, Midsummer)
Chapter 9. Lugnasad (Lammas)
Chapter 10. Mean Fomhair (Fall Equinox)
Chapter 11. Herbs of the Druids
Chapter 12. Herbal Alchemy and the Planets
Chapter 13. Sacred Groves and Circles
Chapter 14. Last Rites and the Celtic Otherworld
Chapter 15. Under the Marriage Oak
Chapter 16. Home, A Haven of Peace and Prosperity
Chapter 17. From Childbirth to Puberty and Initiation
Appendix A Pronunciation Guide
Appendix B Resources
Bibliography
Plant Index
Subject Index
